Record crowds watch ‘magical’ bonfire

Once again, record crowds attended the event with an estimated 2,500 watching the proceedings.

John Lederer, from the bonfire society, said: “What was particularly pleasing was that a large number of families attended, which is testament to the society’s aim of being a family bonfire without losing the identity of a traditional Bonfire Society.

“The evening started with the ever-popular fancy dress competition, which, this year, recorded 41 entries, held at the village hall. The Brown Trophy, which is awarded to the best-dressed family, went to the Dunga and Mathews family.

“More than ten Bonfire Societies joined forces to form the torch-lit procession, which, wended its way through the lanes from Staplecross, to Cripps Corner and back. The procession was lit by burning torches and bright red flares making the dark lanes very atmospheric. Drum bands added to the atmosphere.

“Locals met the procession at The White Hart, Cripps Corner and followed as the procession moved back up the hill to Staplecross.

“The Bonfire was lit by a long term supporter, Karen Hall from Sittingbourne, North Kent. She visits Staplecross every year and described lighting the bonfire as very exciting and a great privilege.

“The firework display was described by many as pure magic, absolutely wonderful or just amazing. No wonder the event has been dubbed The Best Village Bonfire.

“The Ewhurst and Staplecross Bonfire Society would like to thank everyone who supported this event: the huge number of spectators and their generosity, all other bonfire societies who were represented and everyone who gave their time, energy and support throughout the year and on Saturday night to ensure that the evening was a roaring success.

“Special thanks to the police, firemen, ambulance and first aiders and all other organisations involved.

“The Society is confident that it will once again be able to make worthwhile donations to the charities and local organisations, which it supports.

“Don’t forget, we need your support, always welcome new members and our next event is our annual Christmas Carol Service held in December.

Details can be found at WWW.ESBS.ORG.UK and Facebook.”